"The new distracted driving law took effect November 1, and since that period of time 237 Manitoba drivers have had their driver licenses suspended for the minimum three-day period."

That's Manitoba Public Insurance spokesperson Brian Smiley.

"The fine for it is $672, plus five demerits," says Smiley. "The number of 237 drivers were reported by the Winnipeg Police Service, RCMP and Brandon Police services."

Smiley explains the officers are doing good police work through dedicated projects at times, and they're quite observant. He notes some situations are obvious with drivers holding the phones up to their ears and talking.

Fines from these violations add up to a total of $159,264, 1,185 demerits, and 711 days of suspended licenses which are equivalent to 1.95 years.

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